Chapter 31.2

During the first day at the Academy, Canillia had memorized all the nobles who were active in the capital. Many people had come to greet her without giving her a moment to rest. And some had looked down on her, while others seemed to respect her. Canillia had let out a sigh when she’d become aware of Count Tholin purposely glaring at her. He was such a bother. If he didn’t like her, then why couldn’t he leave her alone. Yet, he chose to follow her around while showing contempt behind her back.

After four days, Canillia started becoming accustomed to the Academy. But because the people taking classes with her were older, she couldn’t get close to them. However, she also learned how not to be pushed out of the group.

“Is Duke Claude not participating in class?” Canillia had asked while moving to another building for a science class.

Principal Eddy had laughed as if she was asking something obvious. “He’s not remaining in the Academy because he needs to learn. He is acting as the observer for the Crown Prince.”

“An observer?”

“The Crown Prince is too free-spirited. Anyway, have you adjusted to life in the capital?”

“Yes, it’s okay.”

As she’d walked across the immaculate campus grounds, Canillia had felt a raindrop on her skin. Surprised, she’d run into the building, leaving behind the principal, who’d seemed to have a lot to say.

Tholin had still followed her around without hiding his displeasure, and even more of the people had greeted Lia. She’d ignored them all because her mind was focused solely on the monsoon season that would begin that day. It was the season when she’d left Louvre, and now she’d returned. Her heart had beat so fast that her chest had hurt. She didn’t know if it was anticipation, fear, or nerves, but something had felt as if it was filling her heart.

“Class is starting,” one of the students had called out. And just as she’d stepped inside, the rain had started to pour down.

***

“I’ve got the message, Sir Canillian.” Marilyn Shelby looked beautiful today as she always did. The red hair of the lady wearing a red dress was shining underneath the light from the crystal chandelier.

Canillia brushed her wet shoulders as she walked into the house and then greeted Marilyn, who happened to be taller than her. “Sorry I couldn’t attend the last party.”

“It’s okay. It was only a recovery party. But I didn’t think Sir Canillian would accept my uncle’s proposition to dress like a girl. Are you sure that’s okay?”

Although it wasn’t as big as Marquis Gliade’s home, Marquis Shelby owned a large townhouse in the capital. And it might be fancier than the palace!

Lia didn’t know where to look as they led her down the hallway because everything was bright and shiny. When she walked through the door, Pepe and a hairdresser waited for her inside. Straight away, she saw a gorgeous dress and headdress.

Lia looked nervous, and Marilyn thought it was embarrassment instead of nerves and laughed. “I’m worried. Even if you dress like a girl, there will still be some resemblance to a man.”

“I’m also worried about that,” Lia said, looking shy all of a sudden.

“It takes a long time for a lady to get ready, so take your time. When your escort arrives, I’ll let you know.”

“Yes, thank you,” Lia replied sheepishly. Marilyn was treating her like a little brother, and it felt weird. When she’d left the room, Lia walked over to Pepe, who looked more nervous than her, and said, “We’ll pick a rich color for the hair.”

The hairdresser’s eyes widened at Lia’s casual comment. “But the honey color will suit you more.”

“I don’t like it to be the same color as my hair. P